A fresh political row erupted on Monday after former Ekiti State Governor, Ayodele Fayose, publicly criticised former President Olusegun Obasanjo over comments made during Fayose’s birthday celebration.
In a message, Fayose described Obasanjo’s remarks at the event as “irresponsible”, accusing the former president of showing poor conduct despite his age. He further demanded the return of a monetary gift he had given Obasanjo.
Fayose wrote:
“Dear Baba Obasanjo, I trust this meets you well. Your coming to my birthday party, I appreciate, except for your very irresponsible comments at your age. You went so low, but I am not surprised because someone once said you are supposed to be kept away in the zoo… Sincerely, that’s where you belong.”
He added that he refrained from responding at the event so the public could “know the difference between a sane and a mad man.” Fayose accused Obasanjo of suffering from “heightened dementia” and insisted the former president return his money, saying Obasanjo admitted receiving it at the event.
“Lastly, I shall appreciate if you return my money since you publicly admitted you received but Dangote brought you back,” Fayose said.
Responding, Obasanjo dismissed Fayose’s outburst, saying it only revealed the former governor’s character. He confirmed he had returned the money.
“Ayo, thanks for your ‘Thank You’ message, which undisguisedly revealed who and what you are, unchanged and unchangeable. Your money has been sent back through Foluso Adeagbo who brought it, and in the same bag as he brought it, unopened by me,” Obasanjo stated.
The exchange has sparked widespread reactions as both men, known for their long history of political clashes, resume public hostilities.
